`Robot' comes from the Czech word `Robota' which means `work.' Industrial robots are functionally similar to a human being. They have `arms' and `hands' made of metal which can move up, down, and in and out. The robot also has `muscles' which are electric motors or liquid-pressured (hydraulic) systems. The device's `brain' is a computer with its own built-in memory. In addition to all these functions it can swivel its `body,' twist its `waist' and grip with its `fingers.' Perhaps the most important part of the robot is its `nervous system.' This part consists of the printed circuits and vast network of copper wires, which transmit the electrical currents which give the instructions and messages required.
Prior to the robot joining the production line, it has to be taught the correct maneuvers. They are taught by humans, who carefully guide the robots through their movements. The robots memorize the motions and then have the capability of operating independently.
There are many advantages to using robots instead of human workers. The first is that robots can continue to do monotonous jobs without getting bored. They can work non-stop without feeling tired (they only ever have to stop occasionally for the odd bit of maintenance). Their work is always of the same excellent standard because the long hours do not affect them or their performance. Lastly the robots can cope with extremely unpleasant conditions, whereas human beings would find it unbearable.
With today's technology there is the potential to develop `eyes' for the next generation of robots. This will enable them to see different objects, recognize them, and then transfer them to their correct positions (see video). This obviously means that the robots would then be suitable for many additional tasks on the assembly line.
